Dark Pennine Tales

On the 21st of December, an eerie power outage plunges a small village into darkness. Not just the house lights and street lamps, but all forms of electricity, including mobile phones and generators, cease to function. As the villagers attempt to investigate the nearby electricity plant, they uncover a horrifying mystery. When the hospital's backup generators fail, the urgency intensifies. Driven...

Ernie did not expect any surprise returnees at band, and for the most part, the usual crowd was in attendance. But he was delighted with a visit from Michael Thompson, who just turned up out of the blue. Despite the ongoing struggles to gather enough players for rehearsals, Michael's appearance brought a glimmer of hope. However, Michael had been unwell and shared grim updates about his brother St...

The first stage is done. It has been very successful, said the master. It has worked on some. The rest will be turned. Then we will take out the remainder of the band. Those that resist, we kill. Yes, master, said Kate. So I just thought I would just show you a preview of further attractions, the master said. They were outside the primary school, looking through the window at the lines of children...

In this intense and captivating story, Angela Blythe pushes the boundaries of horror and suspense as she takes the reader on a nightmarish journey deep into fear and resilience. Awakening in unfamiliar darkness, the woman discovers that she's been buried alive in a roughly crafted pine box. The box, a symbol of her husband John's betrayal and her suffocating marriage, becomes her inescapable priso...

In an atmospheric night thick with mist, the band room pines for harmony as illnesses creep like unseen predators. Sue dreads the potential impact of the unknown disease on Bob, the youngest member of the ensemble. As she arrives in her characteristic leather boots, she carries an overwhelming weight of apprehension about the band's fate. The situation takes a turn for the worse when Barry, lookin...

In the episode, 'An Unexpected Transformation: Maurice's New Reality,' we follow the riveting journey of Maurice, a man dealing with mystifying new abilities while grappling with a perplexing infection. As Maurice navigates this unprecedented shift in his life, he goes to great lengths to maintain his bonds with his old friends, particularly Liz, who is also ensnared in the tendrils of the peculia...

Delve into the serene and ominous backdrop of the English countryside with "The Hidden". Experience the thrilling unraveling of a complex neolithic tale, hidden for ages in the depths of the Pennines. This historic drama unfolds from an ordinary grassy mound, revealing its deep-lying secrets under the unyielding influence of a harsh winter. Join the protagonist as they discover the unexpected: an...

In this episode, an unexpected illness plagues several members of Ernie's band during their preparation for an upcoming performance. Despite throbbing adversity, Ernie tries to coordinate substitutes to avert any hindrance in the looming performance. Amidst the chaos, a key group of band members, including Maurice, put their challenges aside and ensure to attend. Soon, tension intensifies as ex-se...

In this narrative, we delve into a world where the scent of mysticism prevails, and the air is heavy with uncertainty. Christine, with the looming threat of Alzheimer's and the weight of her financial problems, exemplifies the spirit of resilience. Her focus shifts to the Grange, confronting obstacles head-on and succumbing to her circumstances. Several miles away, Diane battles constant fatigue a...

In this engrossing episode, enter a world of bewilderment and mystery. The story unfolds with Tony, Susan, and Bob, who encounter an eerily deserted band room for their eagerly anticipated practice. With the bag of drinks and snacks left behind, they unknowingly bring an odd assortment of items into the room. As the trio grapples with the strange silence, they learn about their bandmates who've be...

A seemingly starless night and a persistent drizzle set a mystifying backdrop at Blackfriars Grange, a place echoing with anticipation for the traditional Bonfire Night. With a ragdoll signaling the usual disappointment yet drowned in the spirit of the band's upcoming performance, nothing seemed out of the ordinary—until it did. Dive into this riveting narrative of intrigue, ambition, and unexpect...

Delve into the heart of "Skin Deep", a chilling Pennine tale penned by the celebrated Angela Blythe. Unravel the twisted story of Vicky and her group of friends - four well-off women on the brink of their fifties, who are about to have their predictable lives shaken by a looming zombie menace. Their mundane lives take a shocking turn when Vicky's husband, Peter, a bright scientist intent on haltin...

New occupant of the Grange stirs up intrigue and curiosity in an otherwise quiet neighbourhood. Curious Christine Baker dedicates much of her time peering out her window, observing the mysterious exterior renovations to the Grange and eagerly waiting to meet her new neighbour. Soon, peculiar events and a misdelivered mail propel her into the life of the impeccably dressed stranger, Mr. Norman Morg...

This transcript takes us on a journey through a tumultuous night at the Freer Mare Band's practice, interrupted by spontaneous laughter, heated disagreements, hectic preparations for Armistice Day and Christmas concerts, and the unexpected booking of a ten-piece band performance. Ernie, Barry and Susan - the de facto leaders of the band - struggle to navigate the chaotic cacophony of personalities...

Immerse yourself in the rich, layered history of Saddleworth, a picturesque area straddling the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. Gracefully embraced by the Pennines' windswept slopes, this region is known for its fresh air, vibrant autumn foliage, and the serene River Tame. Discover the ghostly whispers of Saddleworth's past arising from artifacts and architecture dating back to the Stone Age...

In the opening chapter of Angela Blythe's compelling new vampire series, Sticky Valves is filled with intense fear, the unknown, and the thrill of the survival instinct. After a horrifying cellar captivity, the chapter begins with a frantic escape of a man from his captor, a menacing and bloodthirsty vampire. In contrast, a lively local band is unknowingly linked to the vampire's insidious plans,...

Hi  Welcome to the latest episode of Dark Pennine Tales. This time I am reading a short story from Samuel Minier, called "Falling Stars".  I hope you enjoy it If you would like to submit your on stories to Dark Pennine Tales please contact us through the website https://www.angelablythe.com Thanks  

He’s coming down your chimney tonight. Krampus comes just once a year. Lock up your naughty children as he’ll Ho Ho Hoist them away. It’s all part of the service. He wishes you a very Merry Christmas.

Ding dong Christmas Bells are ringing. What a Merry time we’ll have. Sanctuary. An oasis in a flood. A psycho. Dry clothes. Warmth and a welcome. Wait..what was that? A psycho!!!!

You can’t pick your family, especially your mother-in-law. Traditions are important. There is no stopping some people if they want to practice them. Voodoo anyone?

It’s the light that will always burn, even if something has put every other light out. Lights on the tree, lights in the sky. Everyone all over the universe enjoys a Christmas feast. This is a Christmas dish that you won’t want to be part of.

You can pick up all kinds of things when you go on a foreign mission. Our government is there to help us. To look after us. Not bleed us dry. This corruption comes right from the top. Happy New Year.

We’ve enjoyed him for so many years. Now he gets to enjoy us. Look out it’s the gingerbread man – or men. What’s he got in his hand? Is that a present for me?

This gravy is so good, it’s hair raising. Christmas dinner is always good, especially when someone else is cooking. Gather round and meet your new family. Eat hearty now!

Do not look this gift horse in the mouth. Surprise Gifts! That’s what Christmas is about. Giving something special to other people who don’t have it. They probably don’t want it either.